SCAD Students & Filmmakers Revive Cold Case in 'The Vanishing' Documentary

Atlanta, GA – In an innovative collaboration bridging academia and professional filmmaking, Monument Motion Picture and students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) are bringing renewed attention to the 1965 disappearance of Atlanta resident Mary Shotwell Little with their new documentary, The Vanishing. The film, premiering soon, isn’t just a true crime story; it’s a case study in experiential learning and ethical storytelling.

The Vanishing centers around the unsolved disappearance of Mary Shotwell Little, a case that gripped Atlanta in the 1960s but has largely faded from public memory. While details surrounding the case remain sparse – public records are limited and media coverage at the time was fragmented – the film aims to re-examine the evidence, interview individuals connected to the case, and potentially uncover new leads.

However, the project’s unique aspect lies in its pedagogical approach. Monument Motion Picture deliberately integrated SCAD students into all stages of production, providing them with hands-on experience in documentary filmmaking. Roles spanned from cinematography and editing to production design and sound recording, effectively transforming the film set into a living classroom.

“It's been incredibly rewarding to see students apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world project,” a source close to the production shared. “They’ve been challenged to think critically, solve problems creatively, and collaborate effectively – skills that are essential for success in the industry.”

The collaboration isn’t without its complexities. Balancing educational objectives with the demands of a professional production required careful planning and communication. Ensuring the students were properly supported while maintaining a high standard of quality was a key concern.

“There was a learning curve, of course,” another source noted. “But the students rose to the challenge, demonstrating a level of professionalism and dedication that exceeded our expectations.”

Beyond the educational benefits, The Vanishing also grapples with the ethical considerations inherent in documenting a decades-old tragedy. The filmmakers are acutely aware of the sensitivities surrounding the case and have taken steps to ensure they are approaching the story with respect and empathy.

“It’s crucial to remember that this isn't just a story; it’s about real people whose lives have been profoundly affected by this event,” a source familiar with the film’s ethical guidelines explained. “We’ve prioritized the well-being of the victims’ families and have been mindful of the potential impact our film could have on their lives.”

The production team conducted extensive research into the case, reviewed archival materials, and interviewed individuals connected to the disappearance. They also consulted with experts in trauma and grief to ensure they were approaching the story with sensitivity and awareness.

“We wanted to tell the story in a way that honored the memory of Mary Shotwell Little and provided closure for her family,” a source stated. “That meant being honest about the limitations of our knowledge and acknowledging the pain that has endured for so many years.”

This commitment to ethical storytelling extends to the film’s visual style and narrative structure. The filmmakers eschewed sensationalism and instead opted for a nuanced and contemplative approach. They avoided graphic imagery and instead focused on the emotional impact of the disappearance on the victims’ families and the community.

“We wanted to create a film that was both informative and emotionally resonant,” a source explained. “That meant resisting the temptation to exploit the tragedy for dramatic effect and instead focusing on the human stories behind the headlines.”

The hope is that The Vanishing will not only shed new light on the Mary Shotwell Little case but also spark a broader conversation about the importance of ethical storytelling in the true crime genre. The filmmakers believe that documentaries have the power to educate, inspire, and promote social justice, but that this power comes with a responsibility to tell stories with integrity and compassion.

“We want viewers to come away from this film feeling not only informed but also moved,” a source shared. “We want them to understand the human cost of unsolved crimes and to appreciate the importance of seeking justice for victims and their families.”

Beyond the film itself, the collaboration between Monument Motion Picture and SCAD has the potential to serve as a model for other institutions looking to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world. By providing students with real-world experience and mentorship opportunities, the filmmakers are helping to cultivate the next generation of storytellers and filmmakers.

“We’re proud to be a part of this innovative project,” a source concluded. “We believe that by investing in the education and development of young talent, we can help to create a more vibrant and sustainable film industry.”

The film is currently in post-production and is expected to premiere later this year. The filmmakers are working closely with local community organizations and advocacy groups to ensure that the film is presented in a responsible and sensitive manner. The hope is that The Vanishing will not only bring closure to the Mary Shotwell Little case but also inspire a renewed commitment to justice and compassion.